Which is the most important assessment for the nurse to conduct following the administration of epidural anesthesia to a client who is at 40-weeks gestation?

Choice A rationale

Comparing the temperature of both legs can help identify potential circulatory issues or infections. However, temperature differences are not the most immediate concern when assessing a child with a long-leg cast. Monitoring neurovascular status, including circulation and nerve function, is more critical to ensure there are no complications such as compartment syndrome or impaired blood flow.

Choice B rationale

Monitoring capillary refill of the toes is crucial for assessing the circulatory status of the affected limb. Capillary refill time indicates how well blood is perfusing to the extremities. A delayed capillary refill time can suggest compromised circulation, which could lead to serious complications like tissue ischemia. This assessment helps ensure that the cast is not too tight and that there is adequate blood flow to the toes.

Choice C rationale

Examining for spontaneous movement is important for assessing motor function and ensuring that there is no nerve damage. However, it is not as immediate a concern as circulatory assessment. Spontaneous movement can indicate intact motor function, but circulatory compromise would need to be addressed urgently to prevent tissue damage.

Choice D rationale

Palpating femoral pulses is important for assessing the overall circulation to the lower extremities. However, in the context of a long-leg cast, it is more relevant to directly assess the area distal to the cast (such as the toes) for adequate perfusion. Checking femoral pulses alone does not provide specific information about potential compartment syndrome or tightness of the cast affecting distal circulation.

Choice A rationale

While bleeding tendencies can be a concern in newborns, especially if there are clotting disorders, it is not the immediate priority in the first minutes after birth. Immediate interventions focus on establishing effective respirations and ensuring adequate oxygenation.

Choice B rationale

Fluid balance is important for newborns, particularly in the context of hydration and potential complications like hypovolemia. However, the most immediate concern after birth is ensuring the newborn can breathe adequately to deliver oxygen to the body's tissues.

Choice C rationale

Heat loss is a critical issue for newborns, as they are at high risk for hypothermia due to their large surface area relative to body weight and limited ability to generate heat. Preventing heat loss helps to stabilize the newborn's temperature and supports overall physiological stability, including respiratory function.

Choice D rationale

Hypoglycemia can be a concern in newborns, particularly those who are small for gestational age or have other risk factors. However, the most immediate concern in the first minutes after birth is ensuring adequate breathing to support oxygenation and prevent complications related to hypoxia. .